Welcome to BlackPast 3.0

The wait is over—the new BlackPast.org is officially live! We’ve redesigned our site to bring you a modern, user-friendly experience that makes exploring Black history easier and more engaging than ever.

BlackPast is dedicated to providing reliable information on the history of Black people across the globe, and especially in North America. Our goal is to promote greater understanding of our common human experience through knowledge of the diversity of the Black experience and the ubiquity of the global Black presence. Welcome to the largest online encyclopedia on African American and Global African history on the Internet.

In Defense of Black History

This editorial page is part of an ongoing effort to present the ideas and opinions of individuals both within and beyond BlackPast.org that address the pressing issues and challenges facing African Americans and people of African Ancestry around the world, which are rooted in their historical experiences.

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Featured Article

Shirley Chisholm was a true trailblazer. As the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first to run for president, she broke through barriers and fought for change in ways that still resonate today. Find out more about her incredible legacy by visting her BlackPast article.

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The Interactive African American History Timeline

Discover the rich and inspiring stories of Black history through our interactive timeline, highlighting key moments and figures that have shaped our world. Dive in and explore how history connects to the present and inspires the future!

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The African Capitals

Africa’s capitals are full of life, history, and culture. From the energy of Lagos to the charm of Cairo, each city has its own story to tell. Discover what makes these places special on our African Capitals page.

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What’s New on BlackPast?

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The 1975 NBA Finals (1975)

The 1975 National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals was the first contest pitting teams led by...
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John C. Asbury (1862-1941)

Attorney John C. Asbury, originally named John Cornelius Asbury, was born on April 9, 1862, in...
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William Andrew McClain (1913-2014)

The Honorable  William Andrew McClain was born on January 11, 1913, in Sanford, North Carolina, to...
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K.C. Jones (20minutos.es)

K.C. Jones (1932-2020)

K.C. Jones was an American basketball coach for the National Basketball League (NBA). Jones was...
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Thomas Shropshire (Courtesy of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity)

Thomas Bailey Shropshire (1925-2003)

Thomas Bailey Shropshire, a Past Grand Sire Archon of the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (The Boulé), was...
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William Refrigerator Perry (Sports Illustrated)

William Anthony “The Refrigerator” Perry (1962- )

William Anthony “The Refrigerator” Perry was an American football defensive tackle in the National...
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Paul W. Montgomery (1951 -)

Paul W. Montgomery, born October 5, 1951, became the first Black mayor of Kingsport, Tennessee, on...
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